National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)

• The NCBC is a body set up under the provisions of the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993.

Background

• Via a resolution in 1987, the government had created a Commission for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
• Constitutional status was given to it by passing the Constitution (65^th Amendment) Act, 1990
• In 1992, the National Commission of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (NCSCST) was established
• The NCSCST was split into two different commissions viz. NCSC and NCST by inserting Article 338-A via the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003
• In 1992, the Supreme Court, in its judgement in the Indra Sawhney & Ors. Vs. Union of India and Ors case, had directed the Govt. of India, State Governments and Union Territory Administrations to constitute a permanent body in the nature of a Commission or Tribunal to entertain, examine and recommend the inclusion and exclusion of various Backward Classes for the purpose of benefits and protection.
• In response to this, the Government passed the National Commission for Backward Classes Act in 1993
• Under the provisions of this Act, National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) was constituted as a statutory body.

Functions

• Currently, NCBC is responsible to look into the inclusion and exclusion of backward classes only.

Under the Constitution Amendment Bill(2017), the duties of the NCBC will include:

• investigating and monitoring how safeguards provided to the backward classes under the Constitution and other laws are being implemented,
• inquiring into specific complaints regarding violation of rights, and
• Advising and making recommendations on socio-economic development of such classes.
• The central and state governments will be required to consult with the NCBC on all major policy matters affecting the socially and educationally backward classes.
• The NCBC will have the powers of a civil court while investigating or inquiring into any complaints.